Community events implementation plan

This plan describes the goals and actions the Council will pursue in the development and production of community events in Christchurch.

The Community Events Implementation Plan 2025–29 [PDF, 1.2 MB] outlines how Christchurch City Council will support, enable and deliver community events across Ōtautahi Christchurch and Te Pātaka o Rākaihautū Banks Peninsula over the next five years.

The plan supports the Events Policy Framework and its vision of fostering a vibrant city through meaningful, inclusive and memorable events. It recognises the vital role community events play in shaping the cultural and social fabric of our city by bringing people together, strengthening identity, and creating shared experiences that contribute to wellbeing, creativity and economic vitality.

As Ōtautahi continues to evolve, so must our approach to events. This plan builds on the foundations of the previous Community Events Implementation Plan (2019-2023) and responds to emerging challenges and opportunities including sustainability, climate resilience, digital engagement, accessibility, and changing community expectations.

The plan has been informed by:

• A review of the 2019-2023 Community Events Implementation Plan.
• Community and industry feedback.
• Alignment with Council’s community outcomes.

It identifies eight key priority areas, including event diversity, seasonal balance, community representation, accessibility, innovation, sustainability, and the development of sustainable funding and partnership models.

Our goals

The Implementation Plan outlines a five-year programme of work structured around three core goals:

1. Deliver a dynamic events portfolio that can evolve alongside community and industry needs.
2. Enable partnerships that empower the industry to deliver uniquely Ōtautahi community events.
3. Position Ōtautahi as an events powerhouse by promoting best practice and boldly championing the industry and our environment.

Actions have been developed under each goal, with clear tasks, timeframes, and performance measures. Together, these actions guide how Council will plan, fund, support and deliver events over the next five years, ensuring Christchurch continues to grow as a city known for high-quality, inclusive, and vibrant community events.